“The Liquid Night” by Bill Henson: A Vivid Recollection of Neon-Lit Nostalgia
In the heart of New York City, 1989, Bill Henson captured the soul of a generation on 35mm colour negative film. “The Liquid Night”, his latest book, offers more than just photographs; it provides a hauntingly beautiful window into a time of frenzied nightlife and vibrant streetscapes, bringing back to life an era that’s now lost to the annals of history.
Bill Henson’s mastery shines brightly in this collection, as his photographs invite viewers on a kaleidoscopic journey. Each frame speaks volumes, evoking emotions and vivid memories that transport you back to the hustle and bustle of the neon-lit streets.
Peter Craven aptly noted, “The images revisit in the artist’s memory –– and as strange images in the spectator’s –– a world that is the instantiation of time lost.” The allure of Henson’s artistry isn’t just in his raw talent but his ability to present the negatives in a way that brings out the breathtaking beauty of film. He himself shared, “In every form of art, you really want the experience of the images to transcend the medium, for the medium to disappear into the greater experience of viewing the work.”
Born in 1955 in Australia, Henson’s illustrious career has seen his work exhibited at esteemed venues worldwide. The Guggenheim in New York, National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, and representing Australia at the 1995 Venice Biennale only scratch the surface of his accomplishments. With his pieces gracing over 40 globally renowned collections, including the Tate Collection in London and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, his legacy is indisputable.
“The Liquid Night” is the sixth feather in Henson’s cap in collaboration with STANLEY/BARKER. The book’s immersive design, reminiscent of the cinematic advertisements flowing through Henson’s images, stands as a testament to their long-standing partnership.
Details of the Publication:
- Release Date: 24 October
- Dimensions: 300×300
- Cover: Hard Back with Foiling
- Printing Technique: CMYK
- ISBN: 978-1-913288-60-0
- Total Pages: 120
- Pricing: £50 / €57 / $60
For art enthusiasts and nostalgics alike, “The Liquid Night” promises a journey worth embarking on, a dive deep into the heart of a bygone era, told through the lens of a master.
